Young performers who are looking for an audience can audition for a chance to show off their singing and dancing skills in this year’s 36th annual “Spotlight on Talent.”
Winners of this talent show don’t walk away with giant cash prizes, but the regional competition does award $4,000 in cash prizes and trophies in several age categories, according to a news release from the Heritage Arts Center Association, which puts on the competition.
There’s also a $1,000 scholarship, awarded to a Pasco County resident who is a graduating senior. The scholarship was added as a result of the community support of “Moonlight and Ivory” concerts and the “Spotlight” contest, the release said.
The scholarship goes to the Pasco senior who has the highest total scores from judges in the preliminary and final contests.
Contestants for Spotlight on Talent must make their way through auditions to have the opportunity to be selected as finalists to compete at two shows.
Several hundred contestants typically vie for a place on the program. They come from Pasco County, as well as Tampa, Brooksville, St. Petersburg and other communities.
Competitors include vocalists, dancers, instrumental musicians, piano players, baton twirlers, bands, gymnasts and other entertainers hoping to take home a prize.
There are several age categories. There also are categories for groups and for solos. A student may enter as a soloist and as a member of a group, the release says.
The deadline for entries is Jan. 24. This year’s auditions will be on Feb. 9.
The final competitions will be March 9 at Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel, 30651 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel. The first act, which begins at noon, will feature the younger finalists. The second act, which begins at 7 p.m., will features the older competitors.
Admission is $12 for adults for one show, or $20 for both.
For students through high school, admission is $6 for one show, or $10 for both. Children under age 5 are admitted free.
The scholarship winner will be announced at the end of the final show, and will be separate, and in addition to the individual category winners.
Competitors are judged primarily on talent, but also on stage presence and appropriate appearance. Professional judges determine the winners.
Applications and additional information are available online at HeritageArts.org.
The competition is also seeking additional community sponsors.
If you’d like more information about the competition or about how to become a sponsor, call Barbara Friedman at (352) 567-1720, or email .
36th annual Spotlight on Talent
This youth talent competition gives young performers a chance to show off their talents and possibly win a trophy or cash award.
Important dates:
Registration deadline: Jan. 24
Auditions: Feb. 9
Competition: March 9
For more information, contact Barbara Friedman at (352) 567-1720, or email .
Published January 16, 2019
